“We would throw out all the exclusive language we use. Dance auditions would welcome trans and non-binary performers in their language and execution. Using words like “exotic, and ethnic” would be replaced with what the creatives actually mean.”

One of the things I learned and loved about the Toronto theatre community … was the power of supporting each other. They’re really good at that. I mean, hell, I was a stranger, essentially an interloping outsider welcomed and supported and ended up winning a Dora Award.

“Surround yourself with people you trust. A good community is not to be understated".”

“Ask questions. Work smart. Say “Yes.” Be kind. Say “No.” Drink water. Read books. Repeat.”

“In school, we learned a pretty narrow idea of what "succeeding" in this career looks like, but in reality, there are endless ways of pursuing your artistry that might be different from what you initially set out to do.”

“From a really young age, my siblings and friends would ask me to “do the funny voices” and “silly expressions” and I loved making them laugh.”

“As the institutions have funding and infrastructure, it should be their responsibility to look at the landscape and figure out how more people can be engaged in the field – giving artists with institutional affiliations the opportunity to contribute to those conversations.”

“Not everyone is going to like what you do. Hell, there are going to be colleagues and people that you look up to that will tell you that they don’t think you can do it. Forgive them. You will experience a lot of criticism in this field. Know that it’s inevitable. You don’t have to take what they say to heart.”

I was given some incredible opportunities to film performances for online streaming. Highlights being a Christmas concert for Stratford Summer Music filmed at the beautiful Knox Church in downtown Stratford, and filming my cabaret “Voice of a Preacher’s Son” on the Stratford Festival stage for their upcoming series “Up Close and Musical” for stratfest@home

I am looking forward to all the new discoveries and the re-discoveries of theatre because let’s face it – when things were being performed in the amphitheater by daylight or moonlight many, many moons ago, that was the only lighting plot we had. We can’t let our advancements and concepts now surround the piece and the people get in the way, we can’t let this happen. We need to find new discoveries to do things in live performance.

“Take this time to try and feel out who you really are and what you can offer while trying to limit how often you play the comparing game.”

“The Bedlam Theatre Company of NYC, known for “creating works of theatre that reinvigorates traditional form,” continues to make exciting art despite the limitations of the Pandemic.”

“Find one thing that you can give your soul over to for the time being and channel your creative force until things return to equilibrium.”

“Lean on friends when you need help, lend a hand when you can, continue working hard, and advocate for underrepresented artists.”

“I recently read an article by the Chicago Tribune highlighting gender parity in American Theatre. In that article, I found out the disheartening truth that plays written by women only account for 29% of all plays produced. Luckily, women theatre artists are taking a stand by speaking out against systemic sexism and ageism or “sageism.” Let me introduce you to another important group called Honor Roll.”

“Having a full, colorful life and rich spirit will only make you a better actor. You cannot fill from an empty well.”

“There is a power inside each of us. Learn to replenish, release, and realign that power. Again, never stop growing.”

“This industry is all about persistency, resistance, proactivity, and patience. We are experiencing this at a heightened level right now and it is okay in this moment to breathe, refocus, and re-center.”

“My favorite quotes that have gotten me through a lot are “Luck is when preparation meets opportunity” and “What is meant for you will not pass you by”. Always do the work to be prepped and know if you don’t get that part or callback, you have something even greater coming down the pike.”